200% council tax plan to tackle Newport's empty homes

Plans to charge double the amount of council tax on long-term empty homes in Newport are being considered to try to tackle the issue of vacant properties.
Newport council claims they have a detrimental impact on communities and can cause problems for neighbours.
There are currently 2,516 vacant properties in the city, with 1,142 exempt from council tax because they are undergoing major work.
The council hopes the move will urge owners to bring them back into use.
Under the plans, the council would charge 200% council tax on properties which have been unoccupied and unfurnished for two years... read more

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